Des Peres is one of those west county towns that feels quietly beautiful — tree-lined streets, peaceful parks, and just enough space for dogs to relax and be themselves.

Des Peres gives us natural light, calm trails, and great backdrops for outdoor pet and family photography.

Whether your dog loves to explore or prefers to stay close by your side, Des Peres offers the kind of setting that makes sessions feel easy and natural.

👉 Most Des Peres families choose our Family & Pet Session – relaxed outdoor photos of your whole family with your dog.

Why Des Peres families choose us

We don’t just take pet photos — we specialize in families who include their pets as part of their story.

With decades of experience photographing animals — from wildlife and birds to dogs and horses — we understand movement, timing, and emotion in a way few photographers do. That experience keeps sessions calm, safe, and natural for both kids and pets.

The result isn’t stiff poses. It’s real moments that feel like your family.

What makes is different? Learn more in our article on why hire a professional dog photographer.

Our favorite dog-friendly locations in and around De Peres

Des Peres is blessed with so many cool spots for pets.

Phantom Forest Conservation Area. This hidden woodland trail is one of Des Peres’ best-kept secrets. It’s shaded and perfect for dogs who like a peaceful stroll through the trees. The light filtering through the leaves makes for beautiful, earthy images with a natural, soft background.

Bittersweet Woods Conservation Area. Just behind Phantom Forest, this short loop trail offers a bit more elevation and a wide, pine-lined path that’s ideal for dogs who want plenty of sniffing opportunities. It’s also great in fall with plenty of color and texture.

Neighborhoods and Greenspaces. Des Peres neighborhoods are full of soft, dappled light and mature trees. If your dog is more comfortable near home, we can build an entire session around a familiar space that still photographs beautifully.

Other dog-friendly parks in the area

Queeny Park (Ballwin, MO). Just north of Des Peres, Queeny Park offers expansive trails and open spaces perfect for leashed walks. Additionally, the park features Tails & Trails Dog Park, a 5-acre off-leash area with separate sections for large and small dogs, water features, and agility equipment.​

Castlewood State Park (Ballwin, MO). Located a short drive west of Des Peres, Castlewood State Park boasts scenic trails along the Meramec River. Also, dogs are welcome on-leash, making it a great spot for nature walks and picnics.​

Route 66 State Park (Eureka, MO). This park offers paved trails and open fields where leashed dogs can explore. Additionally, it is a peaceful setting with historical significance; ideal for a leisurely outing.​

Sniffspot Private Dog Parks (Private Rentals). Sniffspot in Des Peres offers rentable, fully fenced yards in and around Des Peres. Additionally, these spaces provide safe, off-leash play without the crowds.

Gracie’s Corner: Cool and quiet in Des Peres

By Gracie Ann Gurley, Chief Brand Ambassador and Stick Evaluator (and cool as a cucumber)

1. Phantom Forest is my meditation trail. I don’t know what meditation is, but I’m pretty sure this is it. It’s cool, quiet, and smells like leaves and mushrooms and mystery. No crowds, no pressure—just trees and time.

2. Bittersweet Woods is full of soft pine smells and fun crunchies. This is where I walk with my tail up and my nose down. There’s pine, bark, maybe a rabbit trail or two. Also, lots of space to think about big things… like treats.

3. Everything feels familiar—even the new stuff. That’s what I like about Des Peres. It’s the kind of place where I don’t need time to settle in. Whether I’m on a walk or in someone’s yard, it all feels like it’s just meant for dogs like me.

Gracie: I’ve been all over west county if you’re shopping other areas

Let’s be clear, I love Des Peres. But there are many other great spots all over west country: Ballwin, Chesterfield, Clarkson Valley, Creve Coeur, Ellisville, Eureka, Kirkwood, Manchester, Maryland Heights, Town & Country, and Wildwood. And don’t forget locations in the metro east: Columbia and Belleville, Illinois.

You just can’t go wrong on either side of the river.

Gracie can be reached for comment at gracieanngurley@gmail.com.

Frequently Asked Questions-FAQs (Des Peres)

Do you only photograph in Creve Coeur?
No. We provide pet photography sessions throughout St. Louis and the surrounding areas in Missouri and Illinois. We are happy to accommodate your preferred setting.​

What if my dog isn’t leash-trained or doesn’t do well in public parks?
No problem. Many Des Peres sessions happen right in a neighborhood or back yard. As long as we have some space and light, we’ll make it work.

What if my dog can’t be off-leash during the session?
Safety for your best friend is our top priority. It’s common for most public parks to require pets to be on-leash. Here’s great news: our sophisticated photo editing software can, in most cases, remove leashes and collars. Easy peasy.

Can we do the session at our home in Des Peres?
Yes. It is especially beneficial for dogs who are a little shy or do best in familiar surroundings.

Can we include family members in the shoot?
Of course. Be aware some photographers charge more to add family members and pets. But we don’t. See more information about out Family and Pet Portrait Package.

Is your golden retriever Gracie really an employee?

Great question. Yes! Wheels don’t turn at Outdoor Pet Photography Services without Gracie having a paw on it. Don’t tell anyone but it’s possible we have skirted a few child labor laws (Gracie just turned four!). We have our legal department running this down.

Gallery

Below are some of our favorite pet photographs from our work in St. Louis. What lasting memories! Enjoy!